Understanding the Importance of Removing Nipple Moles or Warts
Moles and warts on the nipples can be a source of concern for many individuals. While most moles are benign and harmless, some may change over time and become cancerous. Warts, on the other hand, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be unsightly or cause discomfort. Removing nipple moles or warts can not only improve the appearance of the area but also provide peace of mind regarding potential health risks.
Signs that Indicate Removal is Necessary
- Change in appearance: Any change in the size, shape, color, or texture of a mole or wart should be evaluated by a medical professional. This includes moles that become asymmetrical, have irregular borders, or develop multiple colors.
- Itching, bleeding, or pain: These symptoms can indicate that a mole or wart is irritated or has become infected. It is important to have these areas examined to rule out any serious conditions.
- Family history of skin cancer: Individuals with a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers may be at a higher risk of developing cancerous moles. Regular skin checks and removal of suspicious moles are recommended.
Top Three Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City for Nipple Mole or Wart Excision
1. Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is an internationally renowned and board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. With over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt, he is highly sought - after by celebrities, high - profile individuals, and discerning patients.
Expertise in Mole Removal
Dr. Antell's experience in treating skin cancer, combined with his skills as a plastic surgeon, makes him an ideal choice for removing suspicious or unsightly moles on the nipples. He personally performs the procedure at his private New York practice, ensuring personalized care.
Methods of Removal
| Method | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shave Excision | For more superficial moles, a "shave excision" may be used. A scab will form and flake off after about a week, leaving new, reddish skin that will eventually return to a normal color. | Less invasive, no stitches required, and a relatively quick recovery. | If the mole extends beneath the surface, it may grow back. |
| Full - thickness Excision | This method is used for moles that are deeply rooted in the skin or for suspicious moles. The incision is closed with layers of meticulously placed stitches. | Ensures complete removal and allows for proper evaluation of the cells for pre - cancerous changes. | May leave a scar, and the recovery time may be longer. |
Facility and Recovery
Most patients prefer to have the procedure at Dr. Antell's discreet, private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery facility is fully accredited. After the mole is removed, patients can return home, and a post - operative appointment is scheduled within one to two weeks to ensure proper healing. The specimen is always sent to pathology for testing.
2. Dr. Rapaport's Practice
Dr. Rapaport has vast experience in skin cancer treatment, especially in the treatment of malignant melanoma. His knowledge of skin cancer and aptitude for cosmetic surgery make him a suitable choice for nipple mole or wart excision.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Rapaport can identify and treat both “normal” non - cancerous moles and “abnormal” pre - cancerous moles on the nipples. He also aims to minimize the potential of an unsightly scar formation during the mole removal process.
Mole Removal Procedure
If the depth of the mole on the nipple merits an excision, stitches are used for closure and are left in for approximately one week. For superficial moles, they may be shaved, and no stitch will be required. The mole removal site will form a scab that will fall off within a week, and the underlying area will gradually blend in with the surrounding skin. However, Dr. Rapaport usually does not recommend shaving off moles as they may grow back if not completely removed.
Anesthesia and Location
Dr. Rapaport uses local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the mole removal process. Many patients also opt to take an oral medication to be more relaxed. The mole removal surgeries are almost always performed at his fully accredited in - office surgical suite in Manhattan.
3. Dr. Michele Green's Practice
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board - certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists and offers customized skin care and treatment plans, including mole removal procedures.
Comprehensive Skin Evaluation
Dr. Green specializes in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions and uses the ABCDE criteria (asymmetrical shape, border, changes in color, diameter, and evolving) to assess if a mole on the nipple warrants further testing. If a mole looks unusual, she usually recommends taking a biopsy.
Range of Mole Removal Procedures
| Procedure | Description | Appropriate Moles | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shave Removal | The surface of the mole is shaved to the level of the surrounding skin after numbing with a local anesthetic. The mole is sent to the laboratory for examination. | Superficial moles | About a week with proper wound care |
| Surgical Excision | The entire mole and a margin of surrounding skin are removed using a scalpel or special surgical scissors. Sutures are used to close the treatment site. | Large moles or those from deeper layers of skin | Two to three weeks |
| Electrodesiccation | An electric current is used to destroy the lesion with cautery or heat. It is mainly for benign moles or growths. | Benign moles like seborrheic keratoses or skin tags | Several days for the site to scab and heal |
| Liquid Nitrogen | Used to freeze off benign lesions. The treated area may blister or scab within a few days. | Benign growths, actinic keratoses, or pre - cancerous growths | Depending on the size, may take a few days to a week |
Aftercare and Follow - up
Dr. Green provides detailed aftercare instructions, including keeping the area clean, applying ointment, and avoiding sun exposure. Follow - up is needed to review the biopsy results, and if the mole is cancerous, further treatment may be required.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Expertise | Range of Services | Facility | Aftercare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Practice | Highly experienced plastic surgeon with a focus on minimizing scarring and treating skin cancer. | Shave excision and full - thickness excision for mole removal. | Private operating room near a well - known hospital, fully accredited. | Post - operative appointment within one to two weeks, specimen sent to pathology. |
| Dr. Rapaport's Practice | Extensive experience in skin cancer treatment, especially melanoma. | Excision and shave methods for mole removal, aiming to minimize scarring. | Fully accredited in - office surgical suite in Manhattan. | Clear instructions on wound care and stitch removal. |
| Dr. Michele Green's Practice | Internationally renowned dermatologist, uses ABCDE criteria for evaluation. | Multiple mole removal procedures including shave, surgical excision, electrodesiccation, and liquid nitrogen. | Private dermatology office in Manhattan’s upper east side. | Comprehensive aftercare instructions and follow - up for biopsy results. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Experience
The experience of the surgeon is crucial. Look for surgeons who have a proven track record in mole or wart excision, especially on sensitive areas like the nipples. Surgeons with experience in treating skin cancer can also provide added assurance in case the mole is found to be cancerous.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a variety of mole removal methods. This allows the surgeon to select the most appropriate method based on the size, location, and nature of the mole or wart.
Facility and Accreditation
A fully accredited facility ensures that the surgical procedures are performed in a safe and hygienic environment. Accreditation indicates that the facility meets certain standards of quality and safety.
Aftercare and Follow - up
Proper aftercare is essential for a successful recovery. Hospitals that provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow - up appointments are more likely to ensure optimal results and early detection of any complications.
Conclusion
Removing nipple moles or warts is an important decision that can impact both your appearance and health. Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Practice, Dr. Rapaport's Practice, and Dr. Michele Green's Practice are among the top plastic surgery hospitals in New York City for this procedure. Each hospital offers unique expertise, a range of services, and a commitment to patient care.
If you are considering nipple mole or wart excision, take the time to research and consult with the surgeons at these hospitals. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your specific situation. Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation to take the first step towards a mole - free and healthy future.
